Archaeology and Climate Change

Cost of Internship: $5500

Sponsorship Levels: $100 and up

Student Level: Undergraduates and graduate students. Students enroll in ANTH 496 or 596.

What They Will Do: Document archaeological sites that will be impacted/destroyed by climate change, including rises in ocean level that will lead to increased cliff erosion, inundation, etc. Led by an ASC staff archaeologist, students visit and document archaeological sites on Marin and Sonoma coasts recording endangered sites on State forms (DPR 523) and documenting their condition. Sometimes these trips are accompanied by local Native Americans who explain tribal perspectives on their ancestral sites. Overseen by an ASC staff archaeologist and SSU anthropology Professor Adrian Praetzellis.

Student Benefit: Students learn how to identify and record archaeological sites; to recognize threats to their survival from erosion and inundation; to appreciate both the scientific and traditional Native American value of these sites; and to create professional quality documentation.

Scientific/Social Benefit: The conditions of coastal archaeological sites are recorded and their locations mapped, creating baseline information against which change can be measured. The work will help agencies such as National Park Service, California State Parks, and Sonoma Land Trust determine which sites are in danger and how they may be protected.

How Your Money Will Be Used: Potential uses include transportation costs, Student Assistant and staff wages, and stipends for Native American elders. Internship is taught as funds are available.